BE PREPARED AND STAY SAFE WHEN WINTER POWER OUTAGES STRIKE
Posted: November 16th, 2011 8:26 AM
Contact: Nov. 16, 2011
Media Hotline, 800-570-5838 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Be prepared and stay safe when winter power outages strike
Simple tips will help avoid inconvenience and danger
PORTLAND, Ore. - Delivering safe and dependable electric service for its customers is Pacific Power's continual focus. Severe weather, vehicle accidents and other unpredictable situations, however, can cause power outages despite the utility's best preparations. Especially in winter, customers are encouraged to take action before the next storm arrives to stay safe and avoid inconvenience during power outages.
"Just as our employees are prepared to respond to power outages safely and quickly, we encourage our customers to be informed and prepared to help ensure the safety and well-being of their families," said Bill Eaquinto, Pacific Power's vice president of operations.
One way is to assemble an outage kit with items that will be useful in other emergency situations as well. Store these items in a water-tight container:
* Bottled water - one gallon per person per day. (Most emergency preparedness experts recommend having at least a three-day supply on hand.)
* Ready-to-eat foods and manual can opener
* Battery-operated radio, clock, flashlight and extra batteries
* Blankets
* First aid kit
After first checking your own breaker or fuse box to make sure the outage is not restricted to your residence, customers should report a power outage toll free at 1-877-508-5088.
Staying comfortable during an outage is important, but keeping safe is essential. Important outage safety information on topics such as downed power lines, heater and generator safety and more is available online at www.pacificpower.net/outage. The website also provides information about current power outages affecting 500 or more customers.
"Staying away from downed power lines, acting quickly to keep others out of the area, and immediately notifying Pacific Power or emergency responders will protect family members, can prevent serious injury and save lives," said Eaquinto.
For other electrical safety information, visit www.pacificpower.net/safety or call toll free at 1-800-375-7085.
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